Footsies refers to the neutral game where both players are trying to control space and bait out attacks. In Samurai Shodown, with its high damage output, winning the footsie battle is paramount. This involves using your character's normal attacks to poke at the edge of your opponent's range, forcing them to block or whiff. Spacing is the art of maintaining optimal distance from your opponent. You want to be close enough to hit them but far enough to avoid their attacks. Practice walking back and forth, dashing, and using your character's longest-reaching normals to control the ground. A well-placed heavy slash after a whiffed opponent attack can lead to a Weapon Flip or massive damage, making footsies incredibly rewarding in this game.
